Job Title: R&D and Sustainability Specialist
Industry:
Food Manufacturing
Location:
Bantry, County Cork
Salary:
Competitive, dependent on experience
Role Overview
An established seafood manufacturing business is seeking an R&D and Sustainability Specialist to drive innovation and sustainability initiatives across the organisation. This hybrid role combines scientific research, product development, and sustainability strategy, supporting the business in delivering high-quality, responsible, and future-focused seafood products.
The successful candidate will play a key role in developing new products, improving processing and packaging methods, and leading sustainability projects aligned with regulatory and commercial requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Development
* Develop and test new seafood products, packaging solutions, and preservation methods.
* Work closely with Technical, Production, Quality, and Commercial teams to deliver innovation from concept to launch.
* Monitor consumer trends, market insights, and emerging technologies in seafood processing and aquaculture.
* Conduct laboratory and field trials to validate product performance, safety, and shelf-life.
* Prepare and submit annual R&D Tax Credit technical reports in line with Revenue guidelines, including identification of eligible activities and qualifying costs.
* Prepare and coordinate grant applications (e.g., Enterprise Ireland), including project plans, milestones, KPIs, and reporting requirements.
Sustainability & ESG
* Design and implement sustainability initiatives across sourcing, production, and distribution.
* Track, analyse, and report environmental KPIs including carbon footprint, water usage, and waste reduction.
* Work with suppliers to ensure compliance with sustainable sourcing standards and best practices.
* Support certification schemes and customer requirements (e.g., MSC, ASC, BRCGS, retailer sustainability standards).
* Contribute to ESG reporting and long-term sustainability strategy.
Candidate Profile
Essential:
* Master's degree in Food Science, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
* Minimum 3 years' experience in R&D, sustainability, or a relevant food/seafood industry role.
* Strong understanding of sustainable seafood practices, regulatory frameworks, and food safety standards.
* Experience with product development, formulation, lab testing, and validation trials.
* Excellent communication, organisation, and project management skills.
Desirable:
* Experience with Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tools and sustainability reporting platforms.
* Knowledge of circular economy principles, eco-design, and sustainable packaging.
* Experience working with certification bodies, government agencies, or NGOs.
* Familiarity with grant funding programmes and research reporting requirements.
What's on Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Hybrid working model.
* Opportunity to shape sustainability and innovation strategy within a growing food manufacturing business.
* Career development and training opportunities within a technically focused environment.